RN Imperial Service Medal 1809

[steve albin]

Hi Mack,

My research into the MITCHELL family started in 1987 with a few letters from the National Maratime Museum and the Naval Historical Library,Ministry of Defence.Back in those days things were different.I wrote and called the UK a few times and they were so kind with their letters and help.

It seems that they may have made a mistake with the "Imperial" medal part of their refference but the rest is so accurate that they must have gone to Joseph Mitchell's papers.

I now have 21 full pages from his file showing his career from a 13 year old boy.In one of the letters sent to me in 1987 they doubted that a 13 year old boy on the SURINAM could end up a Master,RN but he did.The letter also mentions that the correct name for this medal is the "NAVAL GENERAL SERVICE MEDAL".

I should have read the Maratime Museum letter more carefully,my mistake.

Young Joseph Mitchell worked his way through 9 ships in order to become a Master,RN in 1827.

Cheers

Steve

[manmack]

i think the clue to his fine career starts with the mention of his occupation,it says he was a clerk on one of his ships,how many young folks could read and write in those days,that young fella was studying for his masters papers from the early days,mack

[dortmund]

Hi Steve,

This is the Naval General Service Medal.

Trevor

[steve albin]

Thanks Trevor,

I saw a copy online - National Maritime Museum and wondered if I should post it.Your post has more info.

Cheers

Steve

[liverpool annie]

Hi Steve


http://www.finanandco.co.uk/images12062004/060.jpg

Heres the medal - the ribbon is white with blue edges - the one in the picture has yellowed with age - and this one is for a different action!

Annie

[steve albin]

Hi Annie,

Thanks again.

I also found that Joseph Mitchell may have more records at TNA/Kew.

There are Naval General Service Medal records for Martinique and Guadeloupe.They used to be held by the National Maritime Museum.

Cheers

Steve

[liverpool annie]

Wow Steve!

You'll be able to write a book on him soon

Annie

[liverpool annie]

So what are you working on now Steve??

Annie